Overview:

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is an archaeological site and UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southern Alberta, Canada. It is located 17 kilometers northwest of Fort Macleod near the town of Cardston, on the eastern face of the Porcupine Hills. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is where for thousands of years aboriginal people of the area used buffalo jumps to facilitate their hunting. The buffalo would be driven off of the cliff face, virtually ensuring a successful hunt. The cliffs range from 15-35 meters in depth with an impetus along the top of the jump. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is considered to be the most extensive of over 3500 sites and is the oldest buffalo jump site in Canada. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Canada
Prominent Features:

1. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located near Fort Macleod, Alberta, Canada. It is one of the oldest and most important archaeological sites relating to Plains Aboriginal People culture. 2. History: The buffalo jump was used for over 5,500 years to hunt American bison. During this period, Aboriginal people, most likely from what is now known as the Blackfoot Confederacy, used to drive the bison off the cliff and onto the rocks below to kill them for food, clothing, and tools. 3. Interpretive Centre: Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre is an innovative interpretive centre, which works to bring the story of the buffalo jumps to visitors. Through interactive exhibits and activities, visitors can learn about the history, culture, and Aboriginal traditions connected to the site. 4. Education Programs: The Interpretive Centre also hosts several educational programs throughout the year. These programs are designed to help visitors gain insight into the traditional buffalo jump culture and promote intercultural understanding. 5. Traditional Events: The Interpretive Centre also hosts several traditional Aboriginal events throughout the year, including the Resonating Voices Powwow and Tipi Raising Ceremony. This national monument of Canada portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is an archaeological site and UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Fort Macleod, Alberta in Canada. For 6,000 years, it has been used by Indigenous people of the plains as a buffalo jump hunting ground. The site was first discovered in 1877 by archaeologist Gilbert Malcolm Sproat, who recognized its significant archeological value. Heavily used prior to and during the mid-19th century, the buffalo jump was a location used to drive bison over the cliff to be hunted. The First Nations Peoples would build drive lines of brush leading to a steep cliff, creating a funneling effect. The buffalo would then be herded inwards and over the edge. Many were killed while others would be driven over for food and clothing. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is associated with the Indigenous culture of the plains in Southern Alberta. The buffalo jumps were important for allowing the Indigenous people to hunt large numbers of bison efficiently and regularly. The name of the site originates from the Blackfoot legend of a tribe member who was found dead beneath the cliff. He had wanted to witness the process of a buffalo jump but chose a location that was too close to the cliff edge. When the buffalo jumped, he was smashed beneath them and killed. In 1987, the site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its archaeological and cultural importance. It has since become a popular tourist destination, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about the powerful cultural and historical significance of the buffalo jump. You must visit one of these historical places in Canada on your Canada tour

Interesting facts:

1. The area of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump has been in use since approximately 6,000 BCE, making it one of the oldest known sites of aboriginal bison hunting in North America. 2. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is the most archaeological recorded Aboriginal resource use area in the world. 3. The name of the site comes from an undated legend about a young Blackfoot man who cracked his skull open after jumping off the cliff to prove his bravery. 4. Special ceremonies and prayers were held and small offerings to the buffalo gods were made before each hunt. 5. Bison carcasses at the site often bear the marks of stone tools used to butcher them, indicating the significance of the jump. 6. In 2021, a new interpretive centre was opened at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, allowing visitors to explore the archaeological significance of the site. Visit one of the famous monuments of Canada with your friends and family.